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Both the iPhone XR and iPhone 12 mini are popular models in Apple’s lineup, offering solid performance and features at different price points. While the iPhone XR brings a larger display and sturdy design, the iPhone 12 mini offers newer hardware in a compact form. 

 

Before finalising on which model to purchase, it's important to compare iPhone XR and iPhone 12 mini across specifications, design, performance, camera, battery life, and pricing.

Key Specifications

If you're deciding between the iPhone XR and the iPhone 12 mini, it helps to start with a quick look at their technical foundations.

The table below highlights and compares the key specifications of both models:

Feature

iPhone XR

iPhone 12 Mini

Launch Year

2018

2020

Chipset

A12 Bionic chip

A14 Bionic chip

Display Type

6.1" Liquid Retina HD (LCD)

5.4" Super Retina XDR (OLED)

Resolution

1792 x 828 pixels, 326 ppi

2340 x 1080 pixels, 476 ppi

Rear Camera

Single 12MP Wide

Dual 12MP (Wide + Ultra Wide)

Front Camera

7MP TrueDepth

12MP TrueDepth

Battery Life (Video)

Up to 16 hours

Up to 15 hours

Water Resistance

IP67 (up to 1m for 30 mins)

IP68 (up to 6m for 30 mins)

Face ID

Yes

Yes

Wireless Charging

Qi Wireless

MagSafe + Qi Wireless

Storage Options

64GB, 128GB, 256GB

64GB, 128GB, 256GB

Weight

194 grams

135 grams

Design and Build

Both phones reflect Apple’s premium aesthetics, but they differ in size, material, and ergonomics.

The below table compares the design and build features of the iPhone XR and iPhone 12 mini:

Feature

iPhone XR

iPhone 12 Mini

Dimensions (H x W x D)

150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm

131.5 x 64.2 x 7.4 mm

Weight

194 grams

135 grams

Frame Material

Aluminium with glass back

Aluminium with Ceramic Shield front

Colour Options

RED, Yellow, White, Coral, Black, Blue

Black, White, RED, Green, Blue, Purple

Build Quality

Rounded edges, thicker bezels

Flat edges, slim bezels

Water/Dust Resistance

IP67 (1m for 30 mins)

IP68 (6m for 30 mins)

Camera Comparison

Photography is a key deciding factor for many users. The iPhone XR and 12 mini differ significantly in this area.

Here’s a detailed camera comparison between both devices:

Feature

iPhone XR

iPhone 12 Mini

Rear Camera Setup

Single 12MP Wide

Dual 12MP (Wide + Ultra Wide)

Aperture (Wide)

ƒ/1.8

ƒ/1.6

Ultra Wide Lens

Not available

ƒ/2.4, 120° field of view

Night Mode

Not available

Available

Portrait Mode

Yes, with Depth Control

Yes, with improved bokeh

Smart HDR

Yes

Smart HDR 3

Front Camera

7MP, ƒ/2.2

12MP, ƒ/2.2

Front Night Mode

Not available

Available

Video Recording

4K at 60 fps (Rear), 1080p at 60 fps (Front)

4K at 60 fps (Rear and Front), Dolby Vision

Performance and Battery

Performance varies not only by chipset but also by efficiency, thermals, and battery size. The table below outlines the differences in processing power and battery life between the two models:

Feature

iPhone XR

iPhone 12 Mini

Processor

A12 Bionic chip

A14 Bionic chip

Neural Engine

2nd generation

16-core Neural Engine

RAM (unofficial)

3GB

4GB

Battery (Video Playback)

Up to 16 hours

Up to 15 hours

Charging Support

Fast charge up to 50% in 30 mins (20W)

Same, plus MagSafe support (15W)

Wireless Charging

Qi Wireless only

Qi + MagSafe

Daily Performance

Smooth for basic tasks and gaming

Faster app loads, better multitasking

Software and Features

Though both devices run iOS, the iPhone 12 mini benefits from newer hardware that enhances several features.

The comparison below highlights software compatibility and unique functional differences:

Feature

iPhone XR

iPhone 12 Mini

Operating System

Ships with iOS 12, upgradable to latest

Ships with iOS 14, upgradable to latest

Face ID

Yes

Yes

5G Support

No

Yes

MagSafe Accessory Support

No

Yes

Night Mode & Deep Fusion

Not supported

Supported

Dolby Vision Recording

Not supported

Supported

Spatial Audio

Not available

Available

Software Longevity (Expected)

Few more years

Longer due to newer chip

Price Comparison

Pricing plays a major role in deciding between the two. The iPhone XR tends to be priced slightly higher across some variants despite being an older model.

The table below compares their current pricing across available storage options in India:

Variant

iPhone XR

iPhone 12 Mini

64GB

₹47,900

₹59,900

128GB

₹40,999

₹24,999

256GB

₹64,900

₹54,999

Disclaimer: This information is meant to help you compare options, but prices and availability can change. Always check with official sources before making a final decision.

Verdict: Which iPhone Should You Buy

Choosing between the iPhone XR vs iPhone 12 mini comes down to what matters more, display size or hardware efficiency.

 

If you prefer a larger screen, longer battery life, and slightly more affordable pricing on the 128GB model, the iPhone XR is a reasonable pick. However, if future-proofing, compact design, 5G support, and advanced camera features are important to you, the iPhone 12 mini offers better long-term value.

 

Those looking to compare iPhone XR and iPhone 12 mini should weigh performance needs against comfort and budget. Both run iOS smoothly, but the Apple iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone XR debate mostly depends on your personal usage style.

Advantages of Shopping with Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card

Whether you go for the iPhone XR or iPhone 12 mini, paying upfront may not always be convenient.

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FAQs

What is the major difference between iPhone XR vs iPhone 12 Mini?

The iPhone XR has a larger LCD display and older A12 chip, while the iPhone 12 mini offers a smaller OLED screen, faster A14 chip, 5G support, and dual cameras.

Is iPhone 12 Mini worth more than iPhone XR?

Yes, in most cases. Despite its smaller size, the iPhone 12 mini offers better display quality, newer internals, and longer software support.

Is the iPhone 12 Mini's battery life significantly better than the iPhone XR?

No. The iPhone XR generally offers slightly better battery life due to its larger size and lower-resolution screen.

How does the display quality of the iPhone 12 Mini compare to the iPhone XR?

The iPhone 12 mini has a sharper, brighter OLED display with higher contrast and better colours than the iPhone XR's LCD screen.

Are there any new features in the iPhone 12 Mini not available in the iPhone XR?

Yes. The iPhone 12 mini has Night mode, Dolby Vision video, 5G support, MagSafe charging, and a more advanced camera system.

Is the iPhone 12 Mini worth the upgrade from the iPhone XR?

If you value camera improvements, compact size, 5G, and a better display, upgrading to the iPhone 12 mini is worthwhile, especially at current prices.

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